Understanding the EU's New Entry/Exit System: What Travellers Need to Know
Clarify the myths and realities of the EU's Entry/Exit System (EES). Discover how it impacts travel, insurance, and border processes. Learn why it matters.
Key Takeaways
- The EES does not require proof of medical insurance for British travellers.
- Non-EU travellers will not need a new visa for short stays under the EES.
- The system is designed to streamline border control, not complicate it.
- EU citizens and long-term visa holders are exempt from the EES.
Understanding the EU's New Entry/Exit System: What Travellers Need to Know
The European Union is set to launch its new Entry/Exit System (EES) on October 12, 2023. This system aims to modernize and streamline border control processes for non-EU travellers entering the Schengen Area. However, the rollout has been accompanied by a wave of myths and misconceptions. In this beginner's explainer, we will clarify what the EES really means for travellers, focusing on key areas such as insurance, visas, and border processes.
Debunking the Myths
Myth: British Travellers Need Medical Insurance
One of the most common misconceptions is that British travellers will need to prove they have medical insurance when using the EES. This is not true. The UK government has confirmed that medical insurance is not a mandatory requirement for UK citizens travelling to the EU under the EES. However, it is strongly recommended to have comprehensive travel insurance, including medical cover, before travelling abroad.
The confusion arose from a translation error in the Eurostar kiosk questions. The last question, which originally read 'Do you have medical insurance?', should actually read 'Do you have travel insurance?' This clarification is crucial for British travellers, particularly those with pre-existing conditions who might face expensive insurance premiums.
Myth: Non-EU Travellers Need a New Visa
Another common myth is that non-EU travellers from visa-exempt countries, such as the UK, will need to apply for a new visa when the EES is implemented. This is incorrect. The EES does not change visa policies or introduce new visa requirements. Non-EU travellers from visa-exempt countries can still enter the Schengen Area for short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa.
The EES is primarily designed to digitally register entry and exit data, replacing manual passport stamping. It will help identify people who overstay their visa and improve border security. It is important to note that the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), which will be introduced in late 2026, is a separate system that will require pre-travel authorization for visa-exempt travellers, including British nationals.
Myth: The EES is Retribution for Brexit
Some British travellers have speculated that the EES is a form of retribution for Brexit. This is a misconception. The EES is an EU-wide effort to modernize border control for all non-EU visitors, not just UK citizens. It was being planned long before the UK's decision to leave the EU, and the UK was even involved in the planning process while still an EU member.
The UK has also introduced its own border control system, the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), which is similar to the EES. This system requires pre-travel approval for visitors from visa-exempt countries, including EU citizens, before entering the UK.
Key Points for Non-EU Travellers
1. EES Applies Only to Non-EU Citizens
The EES will only apply to non-EU citizens, including those from visa-exempt countries. EU citizens, as well as individuals with long-term visas and residence permits in the Schengen Area, are exempt from the EES.
2. No Additional Border Fees
The EES itself does not require any additional fees to be paid at the border. However, when the ETIAS is introduced in 2026, travellers from non-EU countries will need to pay a fee of around €20 for travel authorization, which will be valid for three years or until their passport expires.
3. Improved Border Efficiency
While initial delays may occur as travellers and border staff get used to the new system, the EES is designed to make border control more efficient in the long run. It will replace manual passport stamps and automate biometric systems like facial recognition and fingerprint collection. The EU is also exploring the implementation of pre-registration systems and self-service kiosks at some borders to speed up the processing of travellers and reduce waiting times.
The Bottom Line
The EU's new Entry/Exit System (EES) is a significant step towards modernizing border control in the Schengen Area. While it introduces some changes, it does not impose new visa requirements, mandatory medical insurance, or additional border fees for non-EU travellers. By clarifying these myths, travellers can better prepare for their journeys, ensuring a smoother and more efficient travel experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do British travellers need medical insurance to enter the EU with the EES?
No, medical insurance is not a mandatory requirement for British travellers under the EES, but it is strongly recommended to have comprehensive travel insurance.
Will non-EU travellers need a new visa for short stays with the EES?
No, the EES does not change visa policies. Non-EU travellers from visa-exempt countries can still enter the Schengen Area for short stays without a visa.
Is the EES a form of retribution for Brexit?
No, the EES is an EU-wide effort to modernize border control for all non-EU visitors, not a form of retribution for Brexit.
Do EU citizens need to use the EES?
No, the EES only applies to non-EU citizens. EU citizens, as well as those with long-term visas and residence permits in the Schengen Area, are exempt.
Will the EES increase border crossing times?
While initial delays may occur, the EES is designed to improve border efficiency in the long run by automating processes and reducing manual checks.
